Abstract
With the widespread availability and use of breast pumps, many mothers are curious about the "magic number," – the number of times a day a feeding mother needs to drain her breasts to maintain healthy milk production. While the concept of a fixed "magic number" may seem straightforward, it's important to consider individual differences in storage capacity and milk production. This article will explore the concept of the pumping magic number and provide practical tips for mothers seeking to maintain a stable milk supply while returning to work or managing their milk supply.
Introduction
After giving birth, many mothers are faced with the challenge of maintaining a healthy milk supply for their infants. For mothers who are exclusively pumping or are pumping for a missed feed, the concept of a "magic number" – the number of times a day a feeding mother needs to drain her breasts to maintain healthy milk production – has gained popularity.
The Magic Number Theorem
The magic number is based on individual storage capacity and will be different for everyone. Women with larger storage capacity will need to empty less frequently, while those with a smaller capacity will need to empty more often to produce the same amount of milk[^1^]. The average milk output for mothers exclusively pumping or pumping for a missed feed is 2 – 4 ounces every 2-3 hours / 25-30 ounces per day[^2^][^3^].
Factors Affecting Milk Production
Milk production is influenced by various factors including hormone levels, supply and demand, and the mother's overall health[^1^]. In the first six months postpartum, the average baby consumes between 25oz and 30oz (750-900ml) of milk per day[^2^]. However, some mothers may have a "magic number" of only 4 or 5 to hit this target, while others may require as many as 9 or 10[^3^].
The Importance of Storage Capacity
Storage capacity is the amount of milk the breast can hold overall and is a significant factor in determining the frequency of milk removals required to maintain a healthy milk supply[^1^]. For mothers with larger storage capacity, it may be possible to remove milk frequently enough to make it work. However, for mothers with smaller storage capacities, it can be more challenging to remove milk frequently enough to maintain milk supply[^4^].
Managing Milk Supply while Returning to Work
For many mothers, returning to work with an exclusive pumping schedule can be a challenge. The need to pump at work while juggling a job and young children can lead to reduced milk supply due to decreased milk removals and engorgement[^5^][^6^].
##The pumping magic number is a guideline for mothers seeking to maintain a healthy milk supply while returning to work or managing their milk supply. However, it's important to individualize pumping schedules based on factors such as storage capacity and milk production. Mothers concerned about their milk supply should consult with a lactation consultant to develop a comprehensive plan tailored to their unique needs[^7^].
